The Utilities module contains a kitbag of useful tools that will help you extend the standard IMAS functions to match the specific needs of your business.

It can also help you build electronic bridges to your customers and suppliers, enabling you to benefit from the exciting potential of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI).

THREE MAIN FUNCTIONS:

Cross referencing tools The IMAS cross referencing tools are a set of inquiry functions and reports, which help you when modifying IMAS. These tools examine your current database, encompassing any modifications or additions you might have made to the supplied database.

The cross referencing tools can help when you are:

· Modifying your IMAS database
· Designing new programs functions
· Determining the impact of any changes you might want to make to your IMAS database and
  programs.
· Identifying changes made to the supplied IMAS database and programs.

External Interfaces:
The Utilities module provides and documents transaction formats for importing data originating outside IMAS.

For example:
· Payroll details for the IMAS General Ledger module.
· Customer orders recorded through hand held terminals.
· Inventory transactions recorded through hand held terminals.

Electronic data interchange (EDI):
The external interface functions and specifications contained in the Utilities module are designed to facilitate electronic data interchange (EDI). This module also contains sample EDI programs, for sending and receiving purchase orders, customer orders and customer invoices that can be used to exchange information with your customers and suppliers.

IMAS software design guidelines:
With IMAS you can modify the supplied programs to suit your specific business requirements.

The Utilities User's Guide provides guidelines and examples of how you can implement your own modifications by documenting:

· IMAS programming conventions
· IMAS operating environments (libraries, batch jobs, output queues and data areas)
· IMAS utility programs used frequently throughout the product.